4.6
(1795)
10,218
hikers
308
hikes
Bus station hiking trails around Barleber Lake I are characterized by easily accessible paths surrounding a large recreational lake. The area, originally a sand excavation site, has evolved into a protected landscape with minimal elevation changes, making it suitable for various fitness levels. The terrain primarily consists of well-maintained natural settings around the lake, offering a blend of water views and green spaces.
Last updated: October 2, 2026
4.7
(30)
104
hikers
7.40km
01:52
10m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(17)
68
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

4.3
(16)
56
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(9)
49
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(4)
19
hikers
10.5km
02:41
30m
30m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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The development of water transport technology becomes clear during a visit to the historic Rothensee ship lift. In 1938, the ship lift was put into operation. Leipzig designers opted at the time for a principle that had not yet been practically applied anywhere for a structure of this magnitude: A lift whose trough rested on two movable floats. With the help of the water-filled trough, which together with the two floats and the support structures has a total weight of around 5,400 tons, ships could thus "descend" from the Mittellandkanal and towards the Elbe. Depending on the water level of the Elbe, a gradient between 11 and 18 meters is compensated. With a trough length of 85 meters, a width of 12 meters, and a water depth in the trough of 2.5 meters, the dimensions are, however, too small for today's large motor cargo ships. For this reason, the ship lift was decommissioned in 2006. Since then, the state capital Magdeburg, supported by various stakeholders and with broad public approval, has been committed to its seasonal continued operation. With success: Since the summer of 2013, the ship lift has been seasonally operated again for tourist purposes. The ship lift in Magdeburg-Rothensee is a unique monument due to its technology and history. It is a brilliant design, its construction was an engineering masterpiece. It is the second oldest of only four ship lifts still in operation in Germany and the only two-float ship lift in Germany still in operation. A visit is worthwhile for this reason alone, as the immediate proximity of the state-of-the-art Sparschleuse to the ship lift, as a historical technical monument, makes the developments in water transport technology visible. Data and facts: Usable length: 85 meters Usable width: 12 meters Lift height: 10.45 to 18.46 meters depending on the Elbe water level Water depth in the trough: 2.58 meters Usable size: 82 meters x 9.5 meters x 2 meters Total moving weight: 5,400 tons https://www.magdeburg-tourist.de/Tourismus-Freizeit/System/Schiffshebewerk/
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I would like to give you all a little tip, visit the "Bitte" trough bridge at night too. Simply wonderful, the lighting. 👍🚴🚴♀️
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The city of Magdeburg's big bathtub. It's beautiful there.
2
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In this technical marvel, the gravel is sorted by size.
2
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The waterway junction is well worth seeing. It can be reached on foot or by bike; the path is suitable for gravel and road bikes. You can get there quickly via the Herrenkrug or from Rothensee via the boat lift. There is also a motorhome parking space below.
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great view from the trough bridge down to the Elbe
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interesting opportunity to take a closer look at this dimension
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There are over 300 hiking routes accessible from bus stations around Barleber Lake I. This includes more than 200 easy trails, over 100 moderate options, and a few more challenging paths, ensuring a suitable hike for every preference and fitness level.
The terrain around Barleber Lake I is generally flat and easily accessible, making it suitable for hikers of all fitness levels. Many paths are well-maintained, offering minimal elevation gain, perfect for leisurely walks and enjoying the scenic environment of this protected landscape.
Yes, many routes are designed as circular walks, allowing you to start and end your hike at the same bus stop. For an easy option, consider the Rothensee Lock – Barleber Lake loop from Gewerbegebiet Nord, which offers a pleasant 6.1 km journey.
Barleber Lake I is freely accessible year-round, making it a great destination in any season. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful natural scenery, while summer is ideal for combining a hike with a refreshing dip in the lake. Even in winter, the flat paths are generally manageable for a peaceful walk.
Absolutely. The area's easily accessible paths and minimal elevation make many routes ideal for families with children. The lake itself offers amenities like children's play equipment at the beach, making it a great destination for a family day out. Many of the easy routes are perfect for shorter legs.
Yes, Barleber Lake I is a popular spot for dog walkers. Most trails are suitable for dogs, but please ensure your dog is kept on a leash, especially in designated protected areas and around other visitors. Always remember to clean up after your pet.
Beyond the beautiful lake itself, which is often called the 'blue eye' of Magdeburg, you can explore the surrounding protected landscape. Some routes, like the moderate Hohenwarthe Trough Bridge – Hohenwarthe Lock loop from Barleber See, take you past impressive engineering structures. The lake also offers opportunities for swimming, fishing, and boating, with amenities like a restaurant and kiosks available at the beach area.
While many routes are easy, there are moderate options for those seeking a longer walk. For example, the Rothensee Lock – Rothensee boat lift loop from Gewerbegebiet Nord covers over 10 km and offers a good moderate challenge with varied scenery.
The komoot community highly rates the hiking experience around Barleber Lake I, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 1500 ratings. Reviewers often praise the well-maintained paths, the peaceful atmosphere, and the accessibility of the trails, making it a favorite for easy and moderate walks.
For additional details about Barleber Lake I, including recreational facilities and general visitor information, you can visit the official tourism website for Magdeburg: visit-magdeburg.de.
Yes, some routes offer views of local landmarks. For instance, the Magdeburg–Rothensee Ship Lift – Barleber See loop from Barleber See allows you to see the impressive Magdeburg–Rothensee Ship Lift. Other trails provide scenic views of the lake itself and the surrounding natural landscape.


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